Delhi Government Approves ₹3,386 Cr for Three Metro Corridors
Delhi approves ₹3,386 Cr for 3 Metro corridors, enhancing connectivity and reducing pollution.
Photo by Dewang Gupta
The Delhi government has approved ₹3,386.18 crore for the construction of three remaining corridors of Phase IV of the Delhi Metro Rail Transit System (MRTS). These corridors include the Lajpat Nagar-Saket G-Block corridor (8.385 km), the Inderlok-Indraprastha corridor (12.377 km), and the Rithala-Kundli corridor (26.463 km). The total cost of these corridors is estimated at ₹14,630.80 crore and are expected to be completed within four years.
The expansion aims to reduce congestion and pollution, and strengthen public transport. The existing metro network spans 395 km with a daily ridership of around 40 lakh, which is expected to double after Phase IV completion.
Key Facts
Approved amount: ₹3,386.18 crore
Total length: 47.225 km
Expected completion: Within four years
Existing network: 395 km
Daily ridership: Around 40 lakh
UPSC Exam Angles
GS Paper 3: Infrastructure, Economic Development
GS Paper 2: Government Policies and Interventions
Potential questions on urban transport, infrastructure financing, and environmental impact
Visual Insights
Delhi Metro Phase IV Expansion Corridors
Map showing the three approved corridors of Delhi Metro Phase IV: Lajpat Nagar-Saket G-Block, Inderlok-Indraprastha, and Rithala-Kundli.
Loading interactive map...
Delhi Metro Key Statistics (2026)
Key statistics related to Delhi Metro, including network length, daily ridership, and investment in Phase IV expansion.
- Network Length
- 395 km
- Daily Ridership
- 40 Lakh
- Phase IV Investment
- ₹14,630.80 Cr
- Approved Government Funding
- ₹3,386.18 Cr
Existing Delhi Metro network length. Important for understanding the scale of the metro system.
Current daily ridership of Delhi Metro. Shows the popularity and importance of the metro system.
Total estimated cost of the three approved corridors in Phase IV. Demonstrates the government's commitment to infrastructure development.
Government funding approved for the three corridors. Shows the public sector's role in infrastructure development.
More Information
Background
The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) is not just a modern marvel; it's a product of decades of urban planning and transportation policy evolution in Delhi. The initial concept of a mass rapid transit system for Delhi emerged in the 1960s, but it wasn't until the late 1990s, spurred by increasing congestion and pollution, that the project gained momentum. The first phase, commissioned in 1998, drew inspiration from successful metro systems worldwide, particularly Hong Kong's MTR, in terms of financing and operational efficiency.
The DMRC's success is also rooted in its unique public-private partnership model, which allowed for efficient project execution and technology transfer. Over the years, the DMRC has become a symbol of urban development and a case study for other Indian cities.
Latest Developments
In recent years, the focus has shifted towards expanding the metro network to connect peripheral areas and reduce dependence on road transport. The Delhi Metro's Phase IV project, including the approved corridors, faced delays due to land acquisition issues and funding constraints. The Delhi government's recent approval signals a renewed commitment to infrastructure development.
Looking ahead, the DMRC is exploring innovative financing models, such as value capture financing, to fund future expansions. There's also a growing emphasis on integrating the metro with other modes of transport, like buses and cycle-sharing programs, to create a seamless multi-modal transportation system. The use of advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence for predictive maintenance and passenger information systems, is also expected to enhance the metro's operational efficiency.
Practice Questions (MCQs)
1. Consider the following statements regarding the Delhi Metro Rail Transit System (MRTS) Phase IV project: 1. The Rithala-Kundli corridor aims to extend the Delhi Metro network into the state of Haryana. 2. The Inderlok-Indraprastha corridor will provide connectivity to the existing Green Line and Red Line of the Delhi Metro. 3. The Lajpat Nagar-Saket G-Block corridor is entirely elevated to minimize land acquisition challenges. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.2 and 3 only
- C.1 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: D
All three statements are correct. The Rithala-Kundli corridor extends into Haryana, the Inderlok-Indraprastha corridor connects existing lines, and the Lajpat Nagar-Saket G-Block corridor is primarily elevated.
2. In the context of urban transportation in India, consider the following statements: 1. Value Capture Financing (VCF) is a method of funding infrastructure projects by capturing the increase in property values resulting from the project. 2. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) was established as a joint venture between the Government of India and the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi. 3. The Urban Transport Policy of 2006 emphasizes the need for integrated multi-modal transport systems in cities. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.2 and 3 only
- C.1 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: D
All three statements are correct. VCF is used to fund infrastructure, DMRC is a joint venture, and the Urban Transport Policy emphasizes multi-modal transport.
3. Which of the following statements is NOT correct regarding the impact of metro rail systems on urban environments? A) Metro systems can reduce traffic congestion and air pollution. B) Metro systems often lead to increased property values in surrounding areas. C) Metro systems always result in a decrease in the use of private vehicles. D) Metro systems can improve accessibility and connectivity for urban residents.
- A.A
- B.B
- C.C
- D.D
Show Answer
Answer: C
While metro systems aim to reduce private vehicle use, they don't always guarantee a decrease. Other factors like parking availability and road infrastructure also play a role.